Tuesday, May 30, 2017

The pain in my hands and fingers that I wrote about in my last post continues to trouble me. I am becoming less and less convinced the pain is due to re-activated Shingles. For one, the pain has migrated to my left hand too. From what I understand, Shingles will never cross over to the other side of the body--it always stays on one side. Also, I never did develop a rash this time, and the problem doesn't seem to be improving with time.

A couple weeks ago, I started feeling the same pain that I have in my fingers in my toes too. And even when my toes aren't hurting, both of my feet feel twitchy. It's a difficult sensation to describe because my feet and toes never actually twitch. They simply feel twitchy. I don't know if there's a word for that sensation, but it obviously has something to do with the nerves.

At the same time, I have also been feeling that pain and twitchy-ness in my throat. When it's particularly bad, it also feels like there is a lump in my throat and it feels like it's difficult to swallow.

The one bright spot is that the headaches and brain fog that accompanies this recent cluster of symptoms at the onset has disappeared. That only lasted the first week or so, which is a huge relief.

Because of this new cluster of symptoms, I recently made an appointment with a neurologist. (She is booked until late June, so I have to wait a little while.) I have never before consulted a neurologist before, but I think it's time for some testing. Other ME patient friends have warned me not to expect much. I do understand that the neurologist may simply run a couple basic tests and that these basic tests aren't likely to result in useful information. I understand that's a possible, maybe even likely, outcome but I need to try something.

Search this Blog

DISCLAIMER: I am not a doctor and have no medical training. Nothing in this blog should be construed as medical advice. This blog simply recounts my personal experiences and, at times, summarizes research from other sources. I can't verify the accuracy of these other sources. Never rely on anything you read here in making your own medical decisions. Always consult a doctor.

Follow by Email

What is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)?

The clinical definition of ME is complicated, and the symptoms are many. It is a "multi-system disorder" that affects a person's immune system, hormones, nervous system, and energy (at the cellular level). I prefer to explain, simply, that it feels like I have the flu. Every single day. This is an oversimplification, but it's often the best way to explain it to a healthy person.

About Me

I came down with ME in June, 2011. I was diagnosed six months later. This blog tracks my progress; my successes and failures along the path to (hopefully) sustained remission.
I live with my wife and two young daughters in Southern California.